Eight Lessons Learned in 2008

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” -George Santayanna

Instead of adding to or speculating on 2009 predictions (my crystal ball is a bit cloudy), I thought I would reflect on the year and what I have learned.

I am NOT in control. There is no such thing as absolute power; at least, not that I possess. This goes for me in my personal life, as well as, in my role as advisor to clients. You are not in control and neither is your company/client.

Go beyond the superficial. Please stop the insanity! You know, doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result. Not going to happen. Don’t like being called a spin doctor? Do something about it. Stop mass communicating. Start building relationships. As Beth Harte says so eloquently, “Get with it!”

There is no such thing as privacy. Screw up? No matter…if it is good or bad it will be public. Suck it up and be dignified and authentic in response. This lesson is learned the hard way, but builds a tougher skin.

Yes, we can change. No, I didn’t fall for Obama mania. I did realize it is not wise to state one’s political perspective, especially when in the minority! While we may not all agree, we have the opportunity to learn and practice tolerance.

Lauren, this is a great reflection on 2008. I’ve learned a lot and met some truly amazing people!
As for #8, I was WAY in the minority and I still found a way to contribute (albeit is a little snarky at times). I think it’s about adding a real voice, being passionate (no matter your beliefs/opinions) and not attacking people for their’s.
Looking forward to spending 2009 with you and meeting you in TX!

http://blog.brainstormbrand.com/ Ed Illig

As my mother used to say to me:
“Edward, I’ve forgotten more than you’ll ever remember.”
My admonition that I may have learned a lot but I’ve yet a lot to learn.
Your #5 spoke to this Edward. I’ve always maintained that if people “don’t get it” I’m likely the culprit impeding their ability to do so. That, I get.
Nice reflexive post, Lauren.

http://profile.typekey.com/vargasl/ Lauren Vargas

Beth-real voice without attacking is key no matter the situation!
Ed-Too true…when I start feeling that way, I need to get out of their way! So wise…

http://www.ariwriter.com Ari Herzog

As always, Lauren, you are spot-on with strategy being important, authenticity as key, and tossing the titles.
I await for more.

About the Author

By day, Lauren 'L' Vargas, Ph.D. is a digital dragon wrangler assisting organizations with their community and communication strategies. She is currently a 'One by One' Digital Fellow at the University of Leicester - delivering a "practical approach to building digital literacies within specific museum contexts" for UK and US museums.

Vargas has 19 years of experience with digital transformation in regulated industry (including: federal government, health care / insurance, and financial services). Vargas enables organizations to engage with the communities they serve by fostering authentic relationships built on trust and dynamic dialogue.